How You Should BE for an Interview

What happens during the interview will determine your future. Make no mistake, you are a commodity and the most successful job hunter is the one that can close the sale. Your Goal: Convince the interviewer that you are absolutely the best person to fill the position. Remember: Ultimately, every question an interviewer asks you is related to one simple question: “Why should I hire you?”

All of your long hours of hard work with researching, networking, and writing your resume and cover letter can abruptly end if you don’t get this part right. By using your well developed verbal skills and non-verbal behaviors, you can paint a positive picture of your qualifications and land the offer.The interview is the make-or-break part of your job search. Fortunately it is a skill that can be learned by everyone.

Be Knowledgeable – know the career field, the company, the job, your resume and most importantly know you.

Be Practiced – go through some trial runs answering the key question that you will be asked with a trained career counselor.

Be Polished – list the top five questions you dread being asked and work on the answers.

Be Professional – present a “dress for success” image; feeling good about the way you look will put you more at ease.

Be Punctual – by arriving a few minutes early you show your interest, professionalism and commitment to the employer.

Be Relaxed – pretend you already have the job and this is your first day.

Be Prepared – bring copies of your resume, list of references and the job description; confidence comes from preparation.